How to Maintain Composite Decking in Saskatchewan’s Extreme Weather

Composite decking has gradually gained acceptance by most homeowners in Saskatchewan because of the features it brings to the structures such as durability, easy to maintain, and the attractiveness it possesses. Nevertheless, the weather conditions as a part of Ontario Province might be rather severe both in cold winters and in hot summer, therefore it will also influence the space of the outdoor living zone. Thus, if you want your composite decking in SK to look as classic as it should, it’s crucial to follow some rules of proper care and maintenance to make it resistant to the climate and other adverse factors.

 

 Read on and find some of the most important tips that can be implemented on how to make the best of your composite decking in Saskatchewan.

 

 1. Maintenance so as not to Allow Accumulation of Dirt

 Another thing that affects most of the Saskatchewan people is the weather including the dirt, pollen, and debris that gets to settle on the composite decking all year round. Cleaning is one of the best practices that you should embrace most especially for the maintenance of the decks.

 

 Routine Sweeping: Regularly dust off or sweep your deck to keep it clean from dirt, leaf, or any substance which is accumulated at the surface of the deck. This is fewer stains or scratch which are inflicted on the surface in cases where dirt is trampled on by traffic.

 Deep Cleaning: Using a mild soap and water solution clean your composite decking at least two times in a year. In case of formation of some dirt or mold especially when the snow is melting or during the spring and fall when weather is moist, hard brushing with a soft bristle brush can be used.

 The best time to get the cleaning done is in the spring when there is no more snow on the ground and in the autumn before the cold season sets in and all the windows are closed.

 

 2. Preventing Stains and Discoloration

 Even in SK, where composite decking is famous for being stain proofing, certain measures have to be taken. Here’s how to avoid stains and keep your deck looking pristine:

 

 Clean Spills Promptly: If you spill food, drinks or oil on the surface, then ensure that it is wiped off. This minimizes on the chances of the food staining, especially when one is busy cooking outdoors in the backyard parties and other events.

 Use Outdoor Rugs: Outdoor rugs or mats also should be anti-stain and should be placed on areas that receive much traffic as the dining tables or around the grill.

 Avoid Metal Furniture Scratches: Metal furniture legs will scratch your composite decking. Rubber or felt pad should be placed under the furniture in order to avoid additional unsightly marks on the floor.

 3. Protecting Against Winter Damage

 Living in the province of Saskatchewan exposes composite decks to very low temperatures in the winter and it will affect it. To protect your composite decking in SK, follow these winter care tips:To protect your composite decking in SK, follow these winter care tips:

 

 Snow Removal: To clear the snow in the deck, one should avoid using sharp edged shovels but rather should use a plastic or rubber shovel. Metal shovel should not be used as they can cause damage to the decks through scratching the surface.

 Ice Management: It is recommended that if ice forms on your deck, it should be removed by use of calcium chloride-based ice melt. Do not use salt or other chemicals which are abrasive as they may spoil the colour of the composite material.

 4. Dealing with Mold Mold and Mildew

Nevertheless, situations that are cold or humid like when using your composite decking boards in an area that does not get direct sunlight and there is little circulation of air may lead to formation of black mold and mildew usually seen on the surface part of the boards. Another thing that most home owners have complained of is that molds or mildews grow on their decking especially if it is constantly in contact with moisture; however, this tend to change for those SK’s using composite decking.

·        Routine Inspection: Check the area of the deck for some signs of mold or mildew and clean it when necessary. If you get a glimpse of any growth, wash it off with mold cleaner, or warm water mixed with vinegar.

·        Improve Ventilation: Adequate ventilation before and after construction of a deck is important since it will reduce the chances of mold formation in future. Another factor in maintaining the necessary conditions of the mound is if your deck is close to trees or plants, trim them to avoid blocking the sun and the air from reaching surface of the deck.

 5. Guard Your Deck from the Effects of UV Sunshine

As for some of the disadvantages regarding the construction of a composite deck, some of which are the issues on fading or discoloration due to chlorine especially when the weather is hot just like in Saskatchewan. To prevent sun damage, follow these simple steps

·        Use a UV-Resistant Sealant: Understandably, most kinds of composite decking are stated to be UV stable but layering your deck with a protector that requires UV stability is even better because it helps with retaining the color of the deck for quite longer.

·        Provide Shade: Introducing shade, for instance, umbrella, pergola or awning can be used and placed on the deck during certain hours when the sun’s rays are very strong.

 6. Inspecting and Repairing Damage

 Despite the fact that composite decking that is manufactured in SK is also resistant to the adverse weather conditions, it is advisable that you take time to survey the surface often in order to identify any signs of potential damage.

 

·        Inspect Fasteners and Boards: Other things that you should look at include any bolts that are not well tightened, bowed boards or any other signs of degeneration. These problems should therefore be addressed as soon as possible before things get worse.

·        Replace Damaged Sections: If you find certain areas of your deck to be worn out or damaged beyond repair, do well to repair such areas as soon as possible to guarantee the safety and efficiency of the deck.

 Conclusion

Thankfully, the care and preservation of composite decking in SK does not have to be a lot of work especially that SK is a province that has severely harsh climate just like the Saskatchewan. About cleaning and protection of composite decks from stains, winter conditions, mold, and sun exposure, it is possible to follow several simple guidelines to make your deck look perfect during the whole year. If well maintained the composite deck will give you the pleasure of enjoying the exterior aesthetics of your home and it is worth contracting if you are in Saskatchewan.